Explore each form from the oldest known stage to today.
The character 恭 evolved from ancient forms depicting reverence and respect. Its earliest forms in oracle bone and bronze inscriptions showed a person kneeling with hands raised in a respectful gesture. The modern character combines 共 (together/shared) with 心 (heart), symbolizing a shared heart of respect and humility. Throughout Chinese history, 恭 has maintained its core meaning of being respectful, reverent, and courteous, representing the Confucian virtue of proper conduct in social relationships. Arrived in Japan: The character 恭 arrived in Japan during the 5th-6th centuries CE, along with the broader introduction of Chinese writing system and Confucian classics. It was adopted into Japanese as 'kyō' in on'yomi reading and appears in many Japanese names, often read as 'Yasushi' or 'Yasu' in kun'yomi, maintaining its meaning of respect and reverence.